5 Most Linguistically Diverse Countries In The World

In this article, we are going to look at the 5 most linguistically diverse countries in the world. If you want to read more about the most linguistically diverse countries and check out our detailed analysis of the language learning market, you can go to 10 Most Linguistically Diverse Countries In The World.

5. Mexico

Living Languages: 284

Mexico is a country in North America that is known for its rich culture and incredible cuisine. Home to 284 living languages, Mexico ranks among the top 5 most linguistically diverse countries in the world. Previously, it had also been home to another 13 indigenous languages that are now extinct. Spanish is the official language in Mexico, and it is widely spoken by most of the population.

4. India

Living Languages: 424

India is a country in South Asia that is one of the most populated and largest countries in the world. India is home to as many as 424 living languages. English and Hindi are the two official languages of the country. India was also previously home to 11 more indigenous languages that no longer exist in the modern world.

3. Nigeria

Living Languages: 520

Nigeria is a country in West Africa that is often called the ‘Giant of Africa’ because of its huge population, vastness of its land, and the diversity of its peoples and languages. While English is the official language of Nigeria, other languages like Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba are also official languages in parts of the country. Home to 520 living languages, Nigeria ranks among the top 3 in our list of most linguistically diverse countries in the world. The country had also previously been home to another 12 indigenous languages that have now died out.

2. Indonesia

Living Languages: 704

Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania that is famous for its tropical beaches and cultural diversity. According to the most recent data, Indonesia is home to 704 living languages. It was also previously home to another 14 languages that are no longer extant. The official and national language of Indonesia is Indonesian.

1. Papua New Guinea

Living Languages: 839

With 839 living languages, Papua New Guinea tops our list of the 10 most linguistically diverse countries in the world. It is a country in Oceania that shares its only land border with Indonesia. Papua New Guinea had also previously been home to 12 more languages that have now died out.

You can also take a look at 10 Countries with Most Nuclear Weapons in the World and 15 Worst Performing Industries in 2023.